The history of the Russian Navy is rich with the outstanding feats of naval officers, but the act of 23-year-old midshipman Alexander Domashenko stands out among them.

Domashenko was born in 1804 and from 1822 to 1825 participated in a circumnavigation under the command of Captain 2nd rank Lazarev. After returning, Lazarev was promoted and transferred from the frigate "Kreiser" to the larger ship "Azov," which the young midshipman Domashenko followed.

In 1827, the ship "Azov," part of the Russian squadron of Admiral Heyden, was sent to the shores of Greece to support the Orthodox in their struggle against Turkish oppression. On the "Azov" served future famous naval commanders Nakhimov, Istomin, and Kornilov, and the ship was commanded by Captain 1st rank Lazarev. Among the crew was also 23-year-old midshipman Domashenko.

On September 9, 1827, the Russian squadron encountered a storm. Lazarev ordered the sails to be taken down, but at that moment, one of the sailors fell into the sea. Domashenko, who was about to rest in his cabin, hearing the cry, ran out onto the deck and, without hesitation, jumped into the water to save the sailor. However, a wave engulfed both.

Soon, a victorious battle with the Turks took place, for which the "Azov" was awarded the St. George's banner, and its commander received admiral's epaulettes. However, all attention was drawn to Domashenko's feat. At the initiative of Lazarev and Nakhimov, supported by Admiral Heyden and Emperor Nicholas I, it was decided to erect a monument in his honor. The emperor also granted a lifetime pension to the mother of the deceased, equal to double the salary of her son.

On September 9, 1828, on the anniversary of midshipman Domashenko's death, a monument dedicated to his feat was unveiled in Kronstadt. The ceremony was attended by the entire crew of the "Azov," senior naval commanders, and representatives of the royal dynasty. The monument has survived to this day, but the portrait of the midshipman has not reached us, so portraits of his famous comrades-in-arms are published.